Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Peterborough, NH

Photo of Kelli Woodson, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelli Woodson
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Peterborough, NH 03458
Kelli approaches case conceptualization from a trauma-informed relational-cultural perspective and integrates ACT, DBT, and mindfulness concepts throughout her interventions.
Kelli Woodson is a Psychologist in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2019. She received a BA in Psychology from Clark University and then an MS and PsyD in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University New England. Kelli has received training and supervision in multiple treatment setting including the Brattleboro Retreat, Barre Family Health Center, Keene High School, and Antioch's Psychological Services Center.
Kelli approaches case conceptualization from a trauma-informed relational-cultural perspective and integrates ACT, DBT, and mindfulness concepts throughout her interventions.
Kelli Woodson is a Psychologist in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2019. She received a BA in Psychology from Clark University and then an MS and PsyD in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University New England. Kelli has received training and supervision in multiple treatment setting including the Brattleboro Retreat, Barre Family Health Center, Keene High School, and Antioch's Psychological Services Center.
(877) 812-2928 View (877) 812-2928
Photo of Linda M Perry, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Linda M Perry
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Peterborough, NH 03458  (Online Only)
Hello, Are you ready to invest in your mental health? Are struggling to cope with anxiety, depression, grief or parenting? I can help you navigate a path forward. If you are ready, I am here to walk that path with you. I have over 20 years experience working with all ages. I use a blend of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical-Behavior Therapy, and Solution Based Therapy. I am accepting new clients, pre-teen to older adults. I have flexible hours including evenings. I offer Telehealth sessions only. I look forward to connecting with you and supporting you.
Hello, Are you ready to invest in your mental health? Are struggling to cope with anxiety, depression, grief or parenting? I can help you navigate a path forward. If you are ready, I am here to walk that path with you. I have over 20 years experience working with all ages. I use a blend of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical-Behavior Therapy, and Solution Based Therapy. I am accepting new clients, pre-teen to older adults. I have flexible hours including evenings. I offer Telehealth sessions only. I look forward to connecting with you and supporting you.
(603) 505-8593 View (603) 505-8593
Photo of Kayla Sirois, LCMHC, R-DMT, Counselor
Kayla Sirois
Counselor, LCMHC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Peterborough, NH 03458
Training in DBT, CBT and person-centered care are the foundations of my approach.
Are you struggling with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your own feelings and needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Is it difficult for you to explore different roles and aspects of yourself? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and lives. Deciding to begin your therapy journey can feel debilitating and intimidating. On your self discovery journey, it may mean learning to set boundaries, working through loss, life transition or helping you change a pattern of behavior that is keeping you stuck.
Training in DBT, CBT and person-centered care are the foundations of my approach.
Are you struggling with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your own feelings and needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Is it difficult for you to explore different roles and aspects of yourself? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and lives. Deciding to begin your therapy journey can feel debilitating and intimidating. On your self discovery journey, it may mean learning to set boundaries, working through loss, life transition or helping you change a pattern of behavior that is keeping you stuck.
(603) 267-4870 View (603) 267-4870
Photo of Christine O'Brien - Counseling by Chris, LICSW, MSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling by Chris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, MA
Verified Verified
Peterborough, NH 03458
My life's work is to help those struggling to feel happy, whole, purposeful and worthwhile. Anyone in need of someone to truly see them, hear them and help them balance acceptance of what is and also support them in making those changes to attain a vivid life that feels worth living.
My life's work is to help those struggling to feel happy, whole, purposeful and worthwhile. Anyone in need of someone to truly see them, hear them and help them balance acceptance of what is and also support them in making those changes to attain a vivid life that feels worth living.
(603) 605-8886 View (603) 605-8886
Photo of Dawn Wyman - Dawn Wyman, LICSW, PLLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Wyman, LICSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Peterborough, NH 03458  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients now. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you need to make time for yourself? Do you need someone to talk to? Therapy is most helpful when done in an accepting and collaborative way. I work with you to assist you in attaining personal goals, exploring growth, and achieving emotional well-being. I understand that every individual is unique and I approach treatment with this in mind. I know that each client enters therapy with specific strengths and I do my best to help you pull from those strengths. My approach to therapy can be described as compassionate, active, warm, and gently challenging.
Accepting new clients now. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you need to make time for yourself? Do you need someone to talk to? Therapy is most helpful when done in an accepting and collaborative way. I work with you to assist you in attaining personal goals, exploring growth, and achieving emotional well-being. I understand that every individual is unique and I approach treatment with this in mind. I know that each client enters therapy with specific strengths and I do my best to help you pull from those strengths. My approach to therapy can be described as compassionate, active, warm, and gently challenging.
(603) 685-4909 View (603) 685-4909
Photo of Mia Elliott, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Mia Elliott
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peterborough, NH 03458  (Online Only)
If you find yourself on PyschologyToday because you are feeling frustrated with a particular area of your life, are unhappy in your relationships or career, or are feeling down or anxious about things you can't control, perhaps it's time to talk. Using a strength-based approach, I will work with you to identify what is in the way of feeling your best, and help you get to where you want to be. We will address obstacles as a team, talking through the tough times, and we will figure out how to make the next obstacles more manageable.
If you find yourself on PyschologyToday because you are feeling frustrated with a particular area of your life, are unhappy in your relationships or career, or are feeling down or anxious about things you can't control, perhaps it's time to talk. Using a strength-based approach, I will work with you to identify what is in the way of feeling your best, and help you get to where you want to be. We will address obstacles as a team, talking through the tough times, and we will figure out how to make the next obstacles more manageable.
(603) 728-4180 View (603) 728-4180
Photo of Jill Burns, LCMHC, Counselor
Jill Burns
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Peterborough, NH 03458  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety? Are you unhappy in your relationship? Are you experiencing a stressful life transition? Do you want to lead a more fulfilling and joyful life but just can't seem to get there? If you would like to achieve mastery over your emotions, be supported through a difficult time, have more meaningful relationships, or just experience life in a more positive and fulfilling way, then I can help you. I will work with you to give you the skills you need to reach your goals.
Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety? Are you unhappy in your relationship? Are you experiencing a stressful life transition? Do you want to lead a more fulfilling and joyful life but just can't seem to get there? If you would like to achieve mastery over your emotions, be supported through a difficult time, have more meaningful relationships, or just experience life in a more positive and fulfilling way, then I can help you. I will work with you to give you the skills you need to reach your goals.
(603) 932-5811 View (603) 932-5811

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Samantha Johnson - Samantha Johnson, LICSW, Leek Therapy, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Johnson, LICSW, Leek Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Rindge, NH 03461  (Online Only)
I use evidence-based strategies such as EMDR, DBT, ACT, and mindfulness to help you understand, care, and heal yourself from anxiety, stress, and trauma.
I am a partner at Leek Therapy and I predominantly work with adolescents, young adults, and adults in the following areas: trauma/PTSD, eating disorders, anxiety and phobias, mood disorders, and personality disorders. My therapeutic approach is strengths based and person centered. I strive to provide a non-judgmental, safe space to problem solve, work through struggles, and build effective coping skills. Our life experiences and stressors can make this feel extremely difficult. Maybe you’ve tried to do this on your own, but feel stuck. I want to help you to feel unstuck!
I use evidence-based strategies such as EMDR, DBT, ACT, and mindfulness to help you understand, care, and heal yourself from anxiety, stress, and trauma.
I am a partner at Leek Therapy and I predominantly work with adolescents, young adults, and adults in the following areas: trauma/PTSD, eating disorders, anxiety and phobias, mood disorders, and personality disorders. My therapeutic approach is strengths based and person centered. I strive to provide a non-judgmental, safe space to problem solve, work through struggles, and build effective coping skills. Our life experiences and stressors can make this feel extremely difficult. Maybe you’ve tried to do this on your own, but feel stuck. I want to help you to feel unstuck!
(774) 484-7102 View (774) 484-7102
Photo of Samantha Johnson, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Rindge, NH 03461  (Online Only)
I use evidence-based strategies such as EMDR, DBT, ACT, and mindfulness to help you understand, care, and heal yourself from anxiety, stress, and trauma.
I am a partner at Leek Therapy. I predominantly work with adolescents, young adults, and adults in the following areas: trauma/PTSD, eating disorders, anxiety and phobias, mood disorders, and personality disorders. My therapeutic approach is strengths based and person centered. I strive to provide a non-judgmental, safe space to problem solve, work through struggles, and build effective coping skills. Our life experiences and stressors can make this feel extremely difficult. Maybe you’ve tried to do this on your own, but feel stuck. I want to help you to feel unstuck.
I use evidence-based strategies such as EMDR, DBT, ACT, and mindfulness to help you understand, care, and heal yourself from anxiety, stress, and trauma.
I am a partner at Leek Therapy. I predominantly work with adolescents, young adults, and adults in the following areas: trauma/PTSD, eating disorders, anxiety and phobias, mood disorders, and personality disorders. My therapeutic approach is strengths based and person centered. I strive to provide a non-judgmental, safe space to problem solve, work through struggles, and build effective coping skills. Our life experiences and stressors can make this feel extremely difficult. Maybe you’ve tried to do this on your own, but feel stuck. I want to help you to feel unstuck.
(888) 622-5112 View (888) 622-5112
Photo of Tara Colleen Mahoney, MA, LPC, ESMHL, Counselor
Tara Colleen Mahoney
Counselor, MA, LPC, ESMHL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temple, NH 03084
Making a connection and being understood are essential to a positive and productive therapeutic alliance. My clients say they feel relief and gain insight which helps them enjoy a better quality of life and better relationships. I have 2 locations- the Wellness Seed Collective in Amherst and Stepping Stones Farm in Temple. We can meet in the office to explore struggles, develop strategies and resolve issues. We can also go outside to partner with horses for the powerful experiential method of Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy.
Making a connection and being understood are essential to a positive and productive therapeutic alliance. My clients say they feel relief and gain insight which helps them enjoy a better quality of life and better relationships. I have 2 locations- the Wellness Seed Collective in Amherst and Stepping Stones Farm in Temple. We can meet in the office to explore struggles, develop strategies and resolve issues. We can also go outside to partner with horses for the powerful experiential method of Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy.
(603) 727-4355 View (603) 727-4355
Photo of Ross W. Davidson, MA, LCMHC, MLADC, Counselor
Ross W. Davidson
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, MLADC
Verified Verified
Dublin, NH 03444  (Online Only)
Thanks for stopping by. I help people find their inner strength. We all have it, but maybe you have lost track of it. Within us all is the power to deal with anxiety, depression, substance misuse, broken relationships, and all of life's stress. Let's work together so you can begin to have the quality of life that you want.
Thanks for stopping by. I help people find their inner strength. We all have it, but maybe you have lost track of it. Within us all is the power to deal with anxiety, depression, substance misuse, broken relationships, and all of life's stress. Let's work together so you can begin to have the quality of life that you want.
(603) 782-9041 View (603) 782-9041

Online Therapists

Photo of William Cramer, MA, MBA, LCMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
William Cramer
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MBA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Londonderry, NH 03053
Specialties in: Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT): Cultivating mindfulness & values-driven living, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Addressing thought patterns & behaviors, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT): Enhancing emotional regulation & interpersonal skills, Gottman Method for Couples Therapy: Strengthening relationships through practical tools.
Immediate openings for ages 18+! I am a passionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and I believe that every person’s story is unique. That is why I offer customized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and goals. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or life transitions, I am here to guide you. Your well-being is my priority. Our sessions provide a confidential and nonjudgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings. Choose between in-person sessions or online therapy for added convenience (individuals only).
Specialties in: Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT): Cultivating mindfulness & values-driven living, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Addressing thought patterns & behaviors, Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT): Enhancing emotional regulation & interpersonal skills, Gottman Method for Couples Therapy: Strengthening relationships through practical tools.
Immediate openings for ages 18+! I am a passionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and I believe that every person’s story is unique. That is why I offer customized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and goals. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or life transitions, I am here to guide you. Your well-being is my priority. Our sessions provide a confidential and nonjudgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings. Choose between in-person sessions or online therapy for added convenience (individuals only).
(603) 625-0010 View (603) 625-0010
Photo of Natalie Clark, MA, MT-BC, LCMHC, CCTP-2, Counselor
Natalie Clark
Counselor, MA, MT-BC, LCMHC, CCTP-2
Verified Verified
Londonderry, NH 03053  (Online Only)
I have experience in teaching skills from CBT, DBT, and ACT, and I am EMDR trained.
I work with ages 17 and up. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, complex trauma, sexual trauma, gender dysphoria, and life transitions. I have additional training in complex trauma, sexual trauma, and EMDR. My general goal for clients is creating a safe space where clients can develop coping skills, heal relational trauma, and heal. I work in the LGBTQIA+ community quite a bit, and have experience with issues specific to that community. I engage clients in music therapy if it's appropriate to their treatment, and interests.
I have experience in teaching skills from CBT, DBT, and ACT, and I am EMDR trained.
I work with ages 17 and up. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, complex trauma, sexual trauma, gender dysphoria, and life transitions. I have additional training in complex trauma, sexual trauma, and EMDR. My general goal for clients is creating a safe space where clients can develop coping skills, heal relational trauma, and heal. I work in the LGBTQIA+ community quite a bit, and have experience with issues specific to that community. I engage clients in music therapy if it's appropriate to their treatment, and interests.
(866) 349-3099 View (866) 349-3099
Photo of Sarah B Gilman Lard, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah B Gilman Lard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Franklin, NH 03235
I use strategies derived from Mindfulness and MBSR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I work with individuals living with anxiety, depression, identity issues, managing stress, parenting, life changes, grief and loss.
I use strategies derived from Mindfulness and MBSR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I work with individuals living with anxiety, depression, identity issues, managing stress, parenting, life changes, grief and loss.
(603) 922-7529 View (603) 922-7529
Photo of Marykate Oakley, PhD, Psychologist
Marykate Oakley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lebanon, NH 03766
I have training in various evidence-based modalities, including CBT, DBT, ACT, TF-CBT, and assessment.
Greetings! I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides evidence-based psychotherapy and assessment for children, adolescents, and adults. I use an integrated approach, drawing on principles of attachment, developmental theory, and trauma-informed care. I provide comprehensive psychological assessments that address a person's cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning in order to address current symptoms and identify underlying causes.
I have training in various evidence-based modalities, including CBT, DBT, ACT, TF-CBT, and assessment.
Greetings! I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides evidence-based psychotherapy and assessment for children, adolescents, and adults. I use an integrated approach, drawing on principles of attachment, developmental theory, and trauma-informed care. I provide comprehensive psychological assessments that address a person's cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning in order to address current symptoms and identify underlying causes.
(844) 959-1815 View (844) 959-1815
Photo of Diane Desharnais - Desharnais Counseling Services P.L.L.C, AA, BA, MS
Desharnais Counseling Services P.L.L.C
AA, BA, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tilton, NH 03276
I believe that even the most difficult and challenging issues can be either resolved or used as a strength based tool for healing and the start of new beginnings in a relationship. I have worked with clients with a wide range of issues and struggles, from relationship and communication difficulty to managing persistent mental illness. I have an eclectic approach with patients and utilize skill training including CBT and DBT. I have a vast variety of experience working with couples, families, elders and adolescence. I consider my skills as a counselor to be very interactive and meeting folks where they are at in their journey.
I believe that even the most difficult and challenging issues can be either resolved or used as a strength based tool for healing and the start of new beginnings in a relationship. I have worked with clients with a wide range of issues and struggles, from relationship and communication difficulty to managing persistent mental illness. I have an eclectic approach with patients and utilize skill training including CBT and DBT. I have a vast variety of experience working with couples, families, elders and adolescence. I consider my skills as a counselor to be very interactive and meeting folks where they are at in their journey.
(603) 455-1211 View (603) 455-1211
Photo of Lindsay Sarsfield, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Sarsfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Pelham, NH 03076
I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, and other popular modalities to help you progress towards your goals.
I am dedicated to helping others identify and achieve their short and long-term goals with therapy . Therapy can be an important aid in managing transitions, stresses, and crises. I believe each of us can improve and expand on the ways we deal with stress and relationships. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, relational stress, substance abuse and trauma. I believe therapy is a comforting and effective way to focus on our self-care and well-being. I view therapy as a collaboration between myself and you as the client to uncover your strengths with skills learned through CBT, DBT, EMDR, and other therapeutic modalities.
I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, and other popular modalities to help you progress towards your goals.
I am dedicated to helping others identify and achieve their short and long-term goals with therapy . Therapy can be an important aid in managing transitions, stresses, and crises. I believe each of us can improve and expand on the ways we deal with stress and relationships. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, relational stress, substance abuse and trauma. I believe therapy is a comforting and effective way to focus on our self-care and well-being. I view therapy as a collaboration between myself and you as the client to uncover your strengths with skills learned through CBT, DBT, EMDR, and other therapeutic modalities.
(603) 329-2132 View (603) 329-2132
Photo of Amanda Artz, MS,  LCMHC, Counselor
Amanda Artz
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Concord, NH 03301
Her clinical work draws on several therapy modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness techniques to assist clients in their abilities to achieve their therapeutic goals.
Amanda has a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Rivier University as well as her Certificate of Graduate Studies from Rivier University. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Keene State College. Prior to joining the Counseling Center, Amanda worked at Greater Nashua Mental Health. She started as a Psychiatric Rehabilitation Professional working in the community with individuals who were diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness.
Her clinical work draws on several therapy modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness techniques to assist clients in their abilities to achieve their therapeutic goals.
Amanda has a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Rivier University as well as her Certificate of Graduate Studies from Rivier University. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Keene State College. Prior to joining the Counseling Center, Amanda worked at Greater Nashua Mental Health. She started as a Psychiatric Rehabilitation Professional working in the community with individuals who were diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness.
(844) 919-0832 View (844) 919-0832
Photo of Robin Wakeman, MSW,  LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Wakeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03103
She incorporates a variety of therapeutic tools including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Ecotherapy.
Before joining LifeStance Health Robin worked in a variety of clinical settings. While at Seacoast Mental Health Center in Exeter, NH she provided therapy, case management, crisis intervention, Integrated Treatment for Co-occurring Disorders, as well as individual and group Dialectical Behavioral therapy. Following her time at Seacoast she worked at New Hartford Psychological Services in Utica New York and later started a private practice in nearby Clinton, NY before moving back to New Hampshire. Robin uses a strengths-based focus in order to support each client in identifying and working towards their goals.
She incorporates a variety of therapeutic tools including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Ecotherapy.
Before joining LifeStance Health Robin worked in a variety of clinical settings. While at Seacoast Mental Health Center in Exeter, NH she provided therapy, case management, crisis intervention, Integrated Treatment for Co-occurring Disorders, as well as individual and group Dialectical Behavioral therapy. Following her time at Seacoast she worked at New Hartford Psychological Services in Utica New York and later started a private practice in nearby Clinton, NY before moving back to New Hampshire. Robin uses a strengths-based focus in order to support each client in identifying and working towards their goals.
(844) 938-0072 View (844) 938-0072
Photo of Brittanie Cavanaugh, LPC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittanie Cavanaugh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LADC
Verified Verified
Keene, NH 03431
I operate from a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach while integrating a variety of evidence-based modalities, including CBT, DBT, IFS, and EMDR.
I am professional counselor with 12 years of experience specializing in substance use disorders and co-occurring conditions like depression and anxiety. My passion lies in practicing from a trauma-informed perspective, supporting adults in navigating the impacts of trauma on their lives, empowering them to achieve their desired outcomes, and assisting them in discovering their goals. Through compassionate listening, validation, and a strengths-based approach, I am dedicated to supporting you in reclaiming your narrative, fostering self-compassion, and building a foundation for lasting well-being and flourishing.
I operate from a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach while integrating a variety of evidence-based modalities, including CBT, DBT, IFS, and EMDR.
I am professional counselor with 12 years of experience specializing in substance use disorders and co-occurring conditions like depression and anxiety. My passion lies in practicing from a trauma-informed perspective, supporting adults in navigating the impacts of trauma on their lives, empowering them to achieve their desired outcomes, and assisting them in discovering their goals. Through compassionate listening, validation, and a strengths-based approach, I am dedicated to supporting you in reclaiming your narrative, fostering self-compassion, and building a foundation for lasting well-being and flourishing.
(860) 813-8629 View (860) 813-8629

See more therapy options for Peterborough

Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists

Who is DBT for?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is designed for people who experience extreme emotional suffering because they lack the skills of emotion regulation and distress tolerance. The basic affliction can underlie a wide range of conditions, from borderline and other personality disorders to PTSD and treatment-resistant anxiety and depression. The therapy is helpful to those whose emotional reactivity is so intense it is disruptive to everyday functioning and leads to frequent crises.

Why do people need DBT?

The ability to regulate emotions is a core psychological skill that enables people to function in life and pay attention to the world outside themselves; it is consistently associated with well-being. DBT is designed to help people learn how to manage and regulate their emotions. Originally developed to treat people with borderline personality disorder whose extreme emotional suffering led to self-harming behavior and suicide attempts, the therapy is now applied to other conditions involving emotion dysregulation, particularly when other treatments have failed.

What happens in DBT?

Individuals meet weekly with their therapist to discuss their experiences relating to moods, behavior, and skills. Using checklists they maintain, they review emotional experiences and positive practices they engage in. The diaries help individuals discern what led up to a specific problem encountered, this is followed by discussion of the consequences of their actions. In addition, individuals may meet in class-like small groups to learn skills such as mindfulness, emotion regulation and distress tolerance.

How long does DBT last?

Because it is intended to establish long-lasting behavioral change among those with persistent problems, DBT is designed to last six months to a year. DBT includes both weekly sessions of individual therapy and weekly skills-training sessions conducted in small groups. Studies of DBT have documented improvement within a year of treatment, particularly in controlling self-harmful behavior; nevertheless, individuals may require therapy for several years.